A Study in Emerald
- Players
- 2-5
- Best withThe player count this game plays best at.
- 5 players
- Play timeHow long a full game runs once everyone knows the rules.
- 90 min
- AgeThe minimum age printed by the publisher.
- 13+
- ComplexityHow demanding the rules are, from 1 (very light) to 5 (very heavy).
- 3.5 / 5
- Year
- 2013
About the game
A Study in Emerald reimagines Victorian London as a world ruled by Lovecraftian Old Ones, based on Neil Gaiman's award-winning short story. Two to five players take on secret identities as either Restorationists fighting the creatures or Loyalists defending the status quo, all while historical anarchist figures move through the story. Deck-building and drafting drive the core gameplay as players bid influence cubes to control cities and grow their power. Hidden allegiances mean you must deduce who is on your side before the game abruptly ends. It's a dense mashup of mystery, horror, and political intrigue.
Hobbli's Notes
Hobbli's editors consider A Study in Emerald one of the most thematically ambitious deck-builders around, thanks to its clever hidden-team scoring twist. Figuring out who shares your allegiance adds a layer of social deduction rarely found in deck-building games. It's a demanding, cerebral experience best suited to experienced gamers willing to invest real time and attention. A rewarding choice for groups who love rich theme paired with strategic depth.
What we like
- Unique hidden-team scoring creates constant tension.
- Rich Holmes/Lovecraft mashup theme.
- Deep deck-building strategy with real choices.
- High replayability from variable roles and endings.
Keep in mind
- High complexity unsuitable for beginners.
- Long playtime and heavy commitment for casual groups.
- Significant downtime between turns.
- Hidden roles can create swingy, sometimes frustrating outcomes.
Who it's for
Best for experienced adult gamers who enjoy hidden-role deduction blended with deck-building strategy, ideally with 3-5 players.
